Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide?

Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide is a lab made fragment of the human protein pro-opiomelanocortin. It contains seven amino acids—arginine, glycine, lysine, proline and valine—with an amide group added to the end to boost stability on skin. Because it is created through solid phase peptide synthesis rather than taken from animals, the ingredient is considered vegan friendly and highly pure.

Peptides began gaining attention in skin care in the early 2000s when researchers found that short chains of amino acids could signal skin to look firmer and smoother. Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide was developed as part of this wave, chosen for its small size which lets it sit comfortably on the skin surface without breaking down too quickly.

Manufacturing starts with protected amino acids that are joined one by one on a solid resin. After the seven-unit chain is built the resin is removed, the chain is capped with an amide, then purified and dried into a fine powder. Brands dissolve the powder into water or a light solvent before adding it to finished formulas.

You will most often see Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide in concentrated serums, firming masks, anti aging moisturizers, eye creams and leave-on treatments that target rough or tired looking skin.

Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This peptide is prized for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps the surface of the skin feel softer, smoother and healthier. By supporting the skin’s natural proteins it can improve the look of firmness and fine lines, add a supple feel after application and enhance the overall comfort of a formula so the product glides on easily and leaves a pleasant finish.

Who Can Use Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide

Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide is considered gentle enough for all major skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Because it is water based and free of heavy oils or waxes it tends to sit well on acne prone skin. Those with very sensitive or reactive skin can usually use it too since the molecule is small and lacks common irritants, but anyone with a known peptide allergy should avoid it.

The peptide is made entirely by synthetic methods without animal by-products which makes it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. The manufacturing process does not use animal derived enzymes or growth media so no indirect animal inputs are involved.

Current data does not flag the ingredient as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically and in the tiny amounts found in cosmetics. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a qualified healthcare provider before use, just to be safe.

The peptide does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daily sun protection practices are still encouraged for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide vary from person to person and most users experience none at all. The following list covers potential reactions, not typical outcomes. When the ingredient is formulated correctly most people tolerate it well.

Temporary redness or flushing

Mild itching or tingling right after application

Dryness if the formula lacks adequate moisturizers

Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to peptides or other formula components

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop use immediately and seek guidance from a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide is a tiny water-soluble molecule that contains no oils, waxes or fatty acids, so it does not block pores or contribute to the formation of blackheads or pimples. Its role is limited to skin conditioning, and it typically appears at very low concentrations in finished formulas, further lowering any clogging potential.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

One thing to note is that the overall formula matters: if the peptide is delivered in a heavy cream loaded with comedogenic emollients, the product as a whole could still cause congestion even though the peptide itself is rated 0.

Summary

Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide is a lab crafted fragment of a human protein that conditions skin, helps it feel smoother and supports a firmer look. It achieves these effects by sitting on the surface and interacting with the skin’s own proteins, encouraging a more supple texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

While peptides as a category have become mainstream, this particular heptapeptide is still a niche pick often found in targeted serums, eye creams and firming treatments rather than mass market lotions. Brands that focus on innovative actives or minimalist formulas are most likely to feature it.

Current data shows the ingredient is low risk for irritation or sensitization when used topically, and it carries a non-comedogenic profile. Still, skin can react unpredictably, so try a patch test whenever you add a new product with Sh-Heptapeptide-11 Sp Amide to your routine.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search